Do you need advanced motorcycle training?
New rider? New bike? Long break? Near miss?
Why advanced motorcycle training might be what you need
If you have recently passed your motorcycle test
If you are new to motorcycle riding, the experience can be overwhelming even if you have driven cars before.
There is so much more to look after – the controls are different, you need to maintain the balance and the grip is dependent on two small patches of rubber.
For those reasons, fresh after passing your test you are unlikely to feel very confident when riding and utilise the potential of your machine.
Also, the standard category A training has to fit all riders of all abilities and is therefore teaching you basic techniques designed not to confuse new riders.
With experience and training, you will discover new, more advanced riding techniques that will help you enjoy riding more whilst staying safe and legal.
If you are buying a new motorcycle
Buying a new, powerful motorbike is an exciting moment.
Perhaps you’ve been riding a low cc bike and now upgrading to something more powerful.
Whilst it is tempting to “go for a blast” immediately, it does often end up badly – especially when riding in groups. Do your skills need an upgrade to match the capabilities of your new pride and joy?
In this situation, it is worth thinking about taking up additional training.
It is not about riding fast – Enhanced Rider Scheme training requires you to obey the traffic law at all times. Instead, the training will help you utilise your new bike’s capabilities to make smooth, safe and enjoyable progress within speed limits.
If you have had a long break from riding a motorbike
Many people ride motorbikes in their youth and return to riding later in life.
There are several reasons why you may want to take up additional training:
- The riding standards you were taught may have changed
- The motorbikes in the past were less powerful and hence the riding experience was different
- Your attitude to risk and safety typically changes (for the better!) when you’re older
In all of the above cases, why not make sure that your skills match your desire to get back on the motorbike? Safety is paramount – and if your skills are as good as new, you will gain a great day out and an ERS certificate!
If you had a near-miss or an accident
If something didn’t quite go to plan whilst riding a motorbike, first of all it is excellent news that you’re reading this page and thinking about further training! You might however be discouraged to ride and feel less confident on the road.
As opposed to cars, motorbikes have scarce safety features, which makes us very vulnerable in case of any incident.
Vast majority of close calls and accidents are preventable by applying good observation skills and anticipation. There is even a “system” for that (invented by the police riders), which is being taught in most advanced riding courses including the ERS.
Why not check your riding standard and ensure you leave nothing to chance when managing the road hazards?
